Kevin McRoberts

People across Scotland are being asked their views on proposed legislation which could have an impact on the sale and advertising of alcohol, and lead to changes in licensing laws.

The Alcohol (Licensing, Public Health and Criminal Justice) (Scotland) Bill was introduced at the Scottish Parliament by Mid Scotland and Fife Labour MSP Dr Richard Simpson, who is concerned about the over-consumption of alcohol in Scotland.

It’s currently being scrutinised by the Parliament’s health and sport committee, which has issued a call for views on the proposals.

“The misuse of alcohol has a devastating impact both on communities and individuals across Scotland. However, it is the role of this committee to look at the detail behind the proposals and determine if this legislation would make a positive difference.”

Dr Simpson says this Bill has two main aims – to improve public health by discouraging irresponsible alcohol consumption, and to tackle the consequences in terms of anti-social and criminal behaviour.

It contains measures that:

• Place restrictions on the retailing and advertising of alcoholic drinks, including placing a restriction on alcoholic drinks containing caffeine;

• Make changes to licensing laws;

• Place obligations on the Scottish Ministers to publish, review and report on its alcohol education policy; and

• Directs certain people whose offending or anti-social behaviour is attributable to alcohol consumption towards treatment or restrictions on that consumption.

Bob Doris MSP, deputy convener of the committee, said: “Our committee is interested in hearing from a wide range of organisations and individuals on this legislation.

“From GPs and the police, to local authorities and the Scottish Government, this proposed legislation contains many provisions that will impact on these organisations.